I've had a few over the years, different brands, the type where you add ice and salt. They work well. I just make so much I burn out the motors every couple of years. But they do work great. How long it takes to freeze the ice cream depends largely on the salt to ice ratio. The longer you take to freeze it, the creamier it will be. Shorter freezing times result in icier, granier textures. Try it - it's fun!

Mine is a "White Mountain" hand crank. It makes really good ice cream. Having to work for it by cranking makes it taste even better. It's a treat for kids to help crank and then enjoy the fruit of their labor.